10 Stupidly Fun Toys Every Musician Needs

2. Line 6 James Tyler Variax

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6lbTAu-Xdw How many guitars does a guitarist need? If you're a session guitarist, generally that answer is "a lot". While one player me be capable of playing many different styles of music, not every guitar is born equal and some just aren't suitable. You wouldn't use a Fender Telecaster to play death metal, in the same way you wouldn't use a BC Rich Warlock to play light jazz. While it's technically possible to play what you want on any guitar, their sounds often just don't cut it for the versatile guitarist and a large collection is required. A little while ago, Line 6 brought out the Variax, the first modelling guitar that was capable of simulating multiple different guitars at any given time. While they were technically brilliant, they looked awful, didn't sell well and were a bit of a dud for the company. When James Tyler got involved and redesigned the instrument to conform to people's expectations of what a guitar should look like, they spiked in popularity and the infinitely versatile modelling guitar became a big hit. What makes it special is the electronic additions to the instrument that allow it to emulate the tone and qualities of any guitar you care to mention. A switch on the body of the guitar allows you choose between 28 possible models, ranging anywhere from 60s Telecasters and Stratocasters to classic Gibsons and even Martin Acoustic guitars. There's even Dobro and banjo models on there. You can even change the tuning of the guitar in real time with the turn of a knob. Choose standard, drop D, open D, half a step down, open A and baritone to suit any possible requirement. So if you ever find yourself with the need to play blistering low-tuned metal then jump up to a happy reggae sound, you only need to change a couple of settings and you're ready to go.